Use of Case Management Role Functions By Air Force Nurses

摘要

Case management (CM) is used by healthcare systems to coordinate quality patientcare and reduce escalating healthcare costs. No single health profession has been identified as best-suited for the CM role. Case Management will be implemented by the Air Force Medical Service (AFMS) and nurses should be the case managers. The purpose of this study was to describe and evaluate the extent to which the role functions of CM are incorporated within the current practice of Air Force (AF) nurses. To assist in the decision-making process on CM model and selection of profession, a baseline assessment of the role functions that AF nurses currently use in practice was needed. A descriptive survey design answered the research questions: (1) What are the CM role functions used by AF nurses in their current practice; (2) How frequently are the CM role functions used.; and, (3) What are the opinions of AF nurses regarding implementation of CM. The sample was 38 Air Force nurses representing all sizes of AF Military Facilities (MTFs). The mailed survey tool provided data on demographics, use of identified CM role functions, and one open-ended question asking for a written, opinion response regarding implementation of CM.